Twenty-year-old Tarquin is smart, tactless, and braver than he knows. He's also been Mage of the Realm of Kelor for two years, taking the title from his mother after she died protecting Kelor from a terrible threat. Mages, unlike all other magicians, give their blood in exchange for far more powerful magic. Unfortunately for the Mage of the Realm, there's always the chance one day Kelor will need magic of such potency that a mage will have to give not just their blood, but their life. Tarquin's mother already made this sacrifice, and Tarquin knows it's likely also his fate. While on a quest to heal his brother, who is dying because of Tarquin's reckless mistake, Tarquin is attacked by a horrific, flesh-eating monster. He's saved by an enigmatic and mute young soldier, called "Five", who is cursed with a terrifying appearance that conceals the heart of a knight. There's an almost instant attraction between the two men, but no time to explore it. The monster's attack is the harbinger of a new invasion. With Kelor helpless, the realm's only hope lies with Tarquin. Just as he feared, his sole choice is to sacrifice himself the way his mother did, in exchange for magic strong enough to destroy the coming evil. He's prepared to give up his life to save the realm, but before the battle is over, he'll be faced not just with his own death, but the death of everyone he cares about. Including the cursed soldier he's come to love.

Blood for Magic

“He was an alchemist.” Tarquin didn’t know why it felt important to explain. “He was so proud of his healing ribbons, and graduating as an adept from the seminary.”


“I’d have liked to meet him,” Edonay said.


Probably not, Tarquin thought, but he just nodded and took a drink to help swallow down the lump in his throat. He drank slowly, needing Edonay’s help to keep the bowl in his shaking hands.


“Oh yes, she’s fine,” Edonay said. “She needed a good rest, but she’s quite well. The child’s doing very well, too, though she told me she’s bored.”


Tarquin let out a sigh. “Thank the Mother and Father.” Then he snapped his head up in astonishment. “Wait—you know it’s a girl? And she’s bored?”


Edonay laughed as she took Tarquin’s empty cup. “Yes, she is. I talked to her, to make sure she was well after her mother’s efforts. She said she’s bored. She wants to come out.”


Chapter 52